The Swedish engineers at Teenage Engineering have decided to give users an early Christmas present! The latest software update for the flagship OP-1 Field synthesizer to version 1.6 is not just cosmetic tweaks, but a powerful injection of new features that fundamentally changes how you work with this device. From a new synthesis engine, through advanced multi-channel USB audio routing, to hidden "Easter eggs" – this free update makes this portable workstation an even more powerful heart of a hybrid studio.

A New Signal Dimension - Amp Synth Engine

The most important new feature is the introduction of the Amp Synth Engine. This function completely changes the approach to external sound sources. Now you can route any external signal (e.g., a guitar or USB audio) through the OP-1 Field's filters and effects before recording it to the virtual tape. The engine offers control over volume, compression, tone, and drive, acting like a proper preamp. Additionally, a built-in tuner has finally been included on board, which will certainly please guitarists and bassists using the OP-1 as a mobile recorder.

This is a true "game-changer" for producers working with a DAW or iPad. Update 1.6 unlocks full, multi-channel audio via USB. Instead of a simple stereo mix, the OP-1 Field can now send 4 separate tape tracks plus the master mix directly to your computer. This is the ideal solution for bouncing "stems" or advanced mixing in apps like AUM. Furthermore, the tape workflow itself has been improved with a Tape Crossfades function, which eliminates annoying "clicks" when cutting samples, as well as a long-awaited countdown option before recording (Count-in).

Christmas Secret - Hidden Fazer Effect

Teenage Engineering is famous for its sense of humor and attention to detail. An "Easter Egg" has been hidden in the update – a completely new effect called Fazer (Phaser). To unlock it, you have to feel like the protagonist of Steven Spielberg's movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". Just play the sequence from the movie's iconic soundtrack on the keyboard (notes: G, A, G [octave lower], G [return], E), and a cosmic animation will appear on the screen, adding the new effect to your FX library.

Update 1.6 also introduces a series of improvements in file management directly from the device (moving, renaming folders) and MIDI clock synchronization via Bluetooth. The new firmware is available for download for free on the manufacturer's official website. If you own an OP-1 Field, this is the best moment to refresh your gear and discover its new capabilities.